McClellan Statement on Passage of H.Res. 719

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement on H.Res. 719:

“The horrific assassination of Charlie Kirk was a tragedy that never should have occurred. No one should be killed or fear for their life for voicing their opinion and participating in our democracy. 

“My faith tradition teaches me to rise above hatred and love both my neighbors and my enemies. I have always strived to uphold and honor those principles throughout my life. Those guiding principles helped inspire my passion for public service, where I have spent the last twenty years working to ensure the ideals upon which this country was founded — that all people are created equal and entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — are a reality for everyone. 

“The resolution honoring the ‘life and legacy’ of Charlie Kirk left me at a moral impasse. 

“I unequivocally condemn political violence. I am cosponsoring a Congressional resolution to denounce its terrifying rise in our nation and to mourn those like Charlie Kirk whom we have lost to such tragic incidents. 

“However, I could not vote for a resolution focused on praising the ‘leadership and legacy’ of Mr. Kirk, who espoused beliefs on race, gender and sexual orientation that ran directly contrary to my faith teachings and were irreconcilable with our nation’s promise of liberty and justice for all.

“So today, I voted present. I urge all Americans to work in their communities to build bridges, stand up to violence and to celebrate our differences through debate and discussion.”